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Public-domain books — and room for your own
Confessio Amantis; Or, Tales of the Seven Deadly Sins
"Confessio Amantis; Or, Tales of the Seven Deadly Sins" by John Gower is a 33,000-line Middle English poem composed between 1386 and 1390. An aging lover confesses to Venus's chaplain, creating a framework for dozens of narrative tales. Commissioned by King Richard II, this work stands among the greatest achievements of late 14th-century English literature. Written in plain style with octosyllabic couplets, it was one of the most copied manuscripts before printing, rivaling Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" in popularity and sharing several stories with it. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
绿野仙踪
清代李百川作,和美国童话《绿野仙踪》(Oz)同名不同书。冷于冰弃家修道,一路收徒除妖,另有一大半篇幅写他所见的官场和市井。
左传
编年记春秋二百五十多年的事,依《春秋》的年份而叙事详密。战争和外交辞令写得最好。
Roget's Thesaurus
"Roget's Thesaurus" by Peter Mark Roget is a reference work first published in 1852. Roget, a British physician and lexicographer, created this revolutionary system of verbal classification to help writers struggling with composition. Rather than arranging words alphabetically, his thesaurus organizes them into six primary classes with over a thousand meaning clusters, grouping words by semantic relationships and conceptual connections. Originally containing 15,000 words, the work has expanded through successive editions while maintaining Roget's foundational organizational system, becoming one of the most widely used English-language reference tools. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
花月痕
太原的两对文人和妓女,一对得意,一对潦倒。诗词占很大篇幅。
The Federalist Papers
"The Federalist Papers" by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and James Madison is a collection of 85 essays written between 1787-1788. Published under the pseudonym "Publius," these articles aimed to persuade New York voters to ratify the proposed Constitution of the United States. The essays tackle fundamental questions about governance, from preventing tyranny of the majority to establishing checks and balances. They address whether societies can create good government through reason and choice, or must rely on accident and force. This defense of the Constitution became a landmark work in political science. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
The Octopus : A Story of California
"The Octopus: A Story of California" by Frank Norris is a novel published in 1901. It chronicles the brutal conflict between wheat farmers in California's San Joaquin Valley and a powerful railroad corporation seeking to seize their land. As ranchers band together to defend their livelihoods against monopolistic forces, loyalties fracture, violence erupts, and lives are destroyed. Through bribery, betrayal, and bloodshed, Norris depicts how impersonal economic powers crush individuals caught in their path, culminating in tragedy for both the innocent and the corrupt. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
The Moonstone
"The Moonstone" by Wilkie Collins is a novel published in 1868. A cursed Indian diamond, stolen during a colonial siege, arrives as an inheritance for young Rachel Verinder on her eighteenth birthday. That night, the precious stone vanishes from her bedroom, launching a complex investigation involving suspicious servants, mysterious Indian priests, and shocking betrayals. This pioneering detective story unfolds through multiple narrators, each revealing new layers of deception as they race to solve the theft and recover the legendary gem. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Ivanhoe: A Romance
"Ivanhoe: A Romance" by Walter Scott is a historical novel published in December 1819. Set in 1194 England, it tells the story of Saxon knight Wilfred of Ivanhoe, disinherited for his loyalty to Norman King Richard the Lionheart and forbidden love for Lady Rowena. The novel weaves together tournaments, outlaws, and deep divisions between Jews and Christians, Normans and Saxons. Scott's vivid portrayal of medieval England sparked widespread fascination with chivalry and the Middle Ages, influencing how generations would imagine figures like Richard the Lionheart and Robin Hood. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
十二楼
李渔的短篇集,十二篇,每篇以一座楼为名。结构讲究,开头常先说一段议论再入正文。
Uncle Tom's Cabin
"Uncle Tom's Cabin" by Harriet Beecher Stowe is a novel written in the mid-19th century that explores the moral complexities surrounding slavery in America. The story introduces us to a variety of characters affected by the institution of slavery, focusing particularly on Uncle Tom, a devout and dignified enslaved man, alongside other figures like Eliza, who is desperate to save her child from being sold, reflecting the heart-wrenching realities of such a system. The opening of the book sets the stage in Kentucky, where Mr. Shelby, in financial distress, contemplates selling Uncle Tom and the young boy Harry to settle debts while conversing with the trader Haley. Through their dialogue, Stowe highlights the inhumane circumstances under which slaves are viewed as property rather than human beings, and we witness the initial stirrings of turmoil that compel Eliza to flee with her son upon hearing of their impending sale. The emotional depth and ethical dilemmas presented in these early chapters lay the groundwork for a powerful narrative that challenges readers to confront the harsh truths of slavery. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Sons and Lovers
"Sons and Lovers" by D. H. Lawrence is a novel published in 1913. It follows Paul Morel, a young man caught between his demanding mother's overpowering love and his relationships with two contrasting women. These suffocating bonds create deep emotional conflicts that shape his struggle toward manhood. Lawrence explores the psychological damage of maternal possession as Paul fights to claim his own life and capacity for love, ultimately facing the question of whether he can break free from the ties of blood that bind him. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Mansfield Park
"Mansfield Park" by Jane Austen is a novel first published in 1814. Ten-year-old Fanny Price is sent from her impoverished home to live with her wealthy aunt and uncle at Mansfield Park, where she endures years of mistreatment. As she grows into adulthood, Fanny navigates complex family dynamics, romantic entanglements, and moral dilemmas. When the charming Henry Crawford pursues her, Fanny must decide between social advancement and her own principles, while those around her make choices that will test their values and reshape their lives. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Emma
"Emma" by Jane Austen is a novel published in December 1815. Set in the village of Highbury, it follows Emma Woodhouse, a privileged young woman who fancies herself a matchmaker. Confident in her abilities, Emma meddles in the romantic lives of those around her, particularly her new friend Harriet Smith. But her misguided interventions lead to misunderstandings, hurt feelings, and unexpected revelations. Through a series of social missteps and romantic entanglements, Emma must confront her own blindness about matters of the heart. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
A Tramp Abroad
"A Tramp Abroad" by Mark Twain is a work of travel literature published in 1880. The book follows Twain and his companion Harris through Germany, the Alps, and Italy, ostensibly on foot—though they frequently find other means of transport. Twain plays the classic American tourist, confidently misunderstanding everything he encounters. Blending autobiography with fiction, humorous observations with invented German legends, and narratives with satirical essays on topics like "The Awful German Language," this fourth travel book offers a comedic journey through nineteenth-century Europe's landscapes and customs. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Laddie: A True Blue Story
"Laddie: A True Blue Story" by Gene Stratton-Porter is a fictional narrative likely written during the early 20th century. The story centers around the relationship between two characters: Laddie, an older brother who embodies love and adventure, and his younger sister, affectionately referred to as Little Sister. Their bond is highlighted through their innocent conversations and imaginative escapades, reflecting themes of family loyalty and the tenderness of childhood. The beginning of the story introduces us to Little Sister as she interacts with Laddie, who enlists her help in delivering a letter to a mysterious Fairy Princess he has invited to their Big Woods. Initially filled with excitement about the secret mission, Little Sister's expedition showcases her deep admiration for Laddie, who is portrayed as a protective and charismatic figure in her life. As she navigates her journey through the woods, readers are drawn into her vivid imaginative world, where the lines between reality and fantasy blur.
Sister Carrie: A Novel
"Sister Carrie: A Novel" by Theodore Dreiser is a novel published in 1900. It follows eighteen-year-old Caroline Meeber, who leaves small-town Wisconsin for Chicago seeking a better life. In the big city, she becomes involved with two men—a charming salesman and a married bar manager—while discovering her talent for acting. As Carrie rises toward fame and fortune, those around her face vastly different fates. The novel explores ambition, desire, and the pursuit of the American Dream in urban America. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
世说新语
汉末到东晋士人的言行,一千多条,按德行、言语、政事等三十六门分类。每条几十字到几百字不等。
The Song of the Lark
"The Song of the Lark" by Willa Cather is a novel written in 1915. It follows Thea Kronborg, a talented girl from a small Colorado town who dreams of becoming a musician. When a teacher discovers her remarkable singing voice, she leaves home to pursue vocal training in Chicago and beyond. The novel traces her artistic development and personal sacrifices as she climbs toward success, shedding relationships that no longer serve her ambition in the burgeoning American West. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Tess of the d'Urbervilles: A Pure Woman
"Tess of the d'Urbervilles: A Pure Woman" by Thomas Hardy is a novel published in 1891. When a poor country girl discovers her family descends from an ancient noble line, she's sent to claim kinship with wealthy relatives. There she encounters Alec d'Urberville, whose attentions lead to tragedy. Later, working as a milkmaid, Tess finds love with Angel Clare, but her past haunts their future. Set in rural England, this story challenged Victorian morality and explores innocence, guilt, and the harsh judgments society places on women. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Life on the Mississippi
"Life on the Mississippi" by Mark Twain is a memoir and travel book published in 1883. It recounts Twain's experiences as a young steamboat pilot's apprentice on the Mississippi River before the Civil War, detailing the art of navigating the ever-changing waters. The second half chronicles his return journey decades later, observing how railroads, growing cities, and time have transformed the river and its culture. Blending personal history with tall tales and social commentary, Twain captures a vanishing era of American river life. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Jude the Obscure
"Jude the Obscure" by Thomas Hardy is a novel published in 1895. It follows Jude Fawley, a working-class stonemason who dreams of becoming a scholar at Christminster. His ambitions become entangled with his passionate but troubled relationship with his cousin, Sue Bridehead. Through failed marriages, social ostracism, and personal tragedy, the novel explores the crushing weight of Victorian society's institutions—particularly marriage, religion, and class barriers—on those who dare to defy convention. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
The Return of the Native
"The Return of the Native" by Thomas Hardy is a novel published in 1878. Set entirely on the wild Egdon Heath over the span of a year, it follows the intertwined fates of several characters trapped by passion and circumstance. When Clym Yeobright returns from Paris, the beautiful but restless Eustacia Vye sees him as her escape from the desolate heath. Their marriage sets off a chain of events involving thwarted desires, family estrangement, and fateful misunderstandings that will test everyone's loyalties and dreams. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Far from the Madding Crowd
"Far from the Madding Crowd" by Thomas Hardy is a novel published in 1874. Set in rural Victorian England, it follows independent Bathsheba Everdene as she navigates complex relationships with three very different men: the faithful shepherd Gabriel Oak, the prosperous farmer William Boldwood, and the dashing Sergeant Frank Troy. Against the backdrop of farm life, the story explores themes of love, honour, and betrayal, as Bathsheba's choices lead to unexpected consequences that will test all involved. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Far from the Madding Crowd
"Far from the Madding Crowd" by Thomas Hardy is a novel published in 1874. It follows the independent Bathsheba Everdene, who inherits a farm in rural England and attracts three very different suitors: the faithful shepherd Gabriel Oak, the obsessive gentleman farmer William Boldwood, and the dashing but reckless Sergeant Frank Troy. Set against the backdrop of Victorian farming life, this tale of love, honor, and betrayal explores the consequences of impulsive choices and the complexity of the human heart. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
The Voyage Out
"The Voyage Out" by Virginia Woolf is a novel published in 1915. Rachel Vinrace embarks on a sea voyage to South America aboard her father's ship, launching a journey of self-discovery among a mismatched group of Edwardian passengers. As Rachel travels from her sheltered London life toward intellectual freedom and awakening consciousness, Woolf satirizes society while exploring themes of feminine identity, sexuality, and mortality. This debut novel contains the seeds of Woolf's later innovative style and introduced the character Clarissa Dalloway, who would become central to a future masterpiece. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
A Tale of Two Cities
"A Tale of Two Cities" by Charles Dickens is a historical novel published in 1859. Set in London and Paris during the tumultuous French Revolution, it follows Dr. Alexandre Manette after his mysterious 18-year imprisonment in the Bastille and his reunion with his daughter Lucie. Their lives become entangled with a French aristocrat fleeing his heritage and a dissolute English lawyer who harbors secret devotion. Against the backdrop of revolutionary terror and violence, personal sacrifices and hidden connections shape their intertwined fates. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
My Bondage and My Freedom
"My Bondage and My Freedom" by Frederick Douglass is an autobiographical slave narrative published in 1855. The second of Douglass's three autobiographies, it expands upon his first narrative, depicting in greater detail his journey from enslavement to freedom. Following his liberation, Douglass became a prominent abolitionist, orator, author, newspaper publisher, and advocate for women's rights. The book features an introduction by James McCune Smith, whom Douglass called the "foremost black influence" of his life. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
The American
"The American" by Henry James is a novel published in 1877. Christopher Newman, a wealthy American businessman, travels to Europe seeking culture and a refined wife. He falls for Claire de Cintré, a young widow from an aristocratic Parisian family. But Newman's honest American spirit collides with Old World class prejudices and dark family secrets. As romance blooms and complications mount, he must navigate the treacherous divide between New World optimism and European sophistication in this tale of international manners and mismatched worlds. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Roderick Hudson
"Roderick Hudson" by Henry James is a novel published in 1875. Wealthy Boston art patron Rowland Mallet discovers a talented young sculptor and sponsors his artistic education in Rome. But Rowland's generous act becomes complicated when he falls in love with the sculptor's fiancée. As Roderick's talent flourishes, he becomes entangled with Christina Light, a beautiful woman pursued by European nobility. Rowland must navigate his own suppressed desires while watching his protégé's life spiral toward crisis in Italy's artistic circles. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
A pair of blue eyes
"A Pair of Blue Eyes" by Thomas Hardy is a novel written during the late 19th century. This work explores themes of love and social class through the experiences of Elfride Swancourt, a young woman navigating her emotions and relationships in a rural English setting. The story is set against the backdrop of church restoration and the wild landscapes of Wessex, interweaving the intricacies of love and societal expectations. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Elfride, a twenty-year-old girl, who possesses a depth of emotion but lacks social sophistication. As her father, the parish vicar, is laid up with illness, Elfride prepares to host Stephen Smith, a young architect sent to oversee the restoration of a local church. The beginning paints a picture of Elfride's character—innocent, curious, and somewhat naive—as she contemplates the arrival of Stephen with both excitement and trepidation. Their first meeting hints at a brewing tension, setting the stage for the developing romantic intrigue amidst the constraints of their social surroundings.
The House of Mirth
"The House of Mirth" by Edith Wharton is a novel published in 1905. It follows Lily Bart, a beautiful but impoverished woman navigating New York City's high society in the 1890s. As twenty-nine-year-old Lily seeks a husband to secure her future, she faces a slow two-year social descent from privilege toward the margins of society. Wharton crafts a sharp tragedy that exposes the moral corruption of an irresponsible upper class that casually destroys what is most beautiful within it. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
The Rise of Silas Lapham
"The Rise of Silas Lapham" by William Dean Howells is a realist novel published in 1885. The story follows self-made businessman Silas Lapham, who builds a fortune in the paint industry but struggles to gain acceptance in Boston's aristocratic society. As the Laphams pursue social status through their daughters' prospects, a complicated romantic triangle emerges when Tom Corey, from an old-money family, takes interest in the family. Financial pressures mount while moral dilemmas test Silas's integrity, forcing him to choose between wealth and principle. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
淮南子
淮南王刘安召集门客编成,二十一篇。以道家为骨,兼收阴阳、儒、法。《天文训》《地形训》保存了大量汉代的自然知识。
中国小说史略
鲁迅讲中国小说源流的讲义,二十八篇,从神话讲到清末。今天评《儒林外史》《聊斋》常被引用的那几句就出自这里。
A Girl of the Limberlost
"A Girl of the Limberlost" by Gene Stratton-Porter is a novel published in August 1909. Set in Indiana's vanishing Limberlost Swamp, it follows Elnora Comstock, an impoverished young woman struggling to attend high school despite her widowed mother's cold neglect and blame. Determined to earn an education, Elnora devises an enterprising scheme selling moths and artifacts from the swamp. Through heartache, betrayal, and emotional disasters, she fights to win her mother's love while pursuing her dreams of learning and independence. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Sense and Sensibility
"Sense and Sensibility" by Jane Austen is a novel published in 1811. When the Dashwood sisters are forced from their family estate into reduced circumstances, they face romantic trials that test their contrasting natures. Sensible Elinor guards her feelings while passionate Marianne wears her heart openly. Both encounter love, disappointment, and betrayal as suitors prove honorable or false. Through heartbreak and revelation, the sisters must navigate society's demands while discovering what truly matters in matters of the heart. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
The Damnation of Theron Ware
"The Damnation of Theron Ware" by Harold Frederic is a novel published in 1896. It follows a young Methodist pastor in upstate New York whose sheltered worldview begins to unravel through encounters with a Catholic priest, a man of science, and an artistic woman. As Theron awakens to new intellectual and cultural ideas, he questions his faith, his calling, and everything he once believed. His transformation leads to unexpected consequences that will alter the course of his life forever. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court
"A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court" by Mark Twain is a novel published in 1889. When Hank Morgan, a Connecticut engineer, receives a blow to the head, he awakens in medieval England during King Arthur's reign. Using his modern knowledge, he poses as a powerful magician and becomes the king's chief adviser. Hank attempts to modernize the past and implement democratic reforms, but faces opposition from Merlin, the nobility, and the Church in this satirical tale about progress, power, and conflicting eras. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Walden, and On The Duty Of Civil Disobedience
"Walden, and On The Duty Of Civil Disobedience" by Henry David Thoreau is a philosophical essay and social critique written in the mid-19th century. This work reflects Thoreau's reflections on simple living in natural surroundings, drawing from his personal experiment of living alone in the woods near Walden Pond. Thoreau emphasizes themes of self-sufficiency, the critique of materialism, and the importance of individual conscience and civil disobedience in the face of unjust laws. The opening of "Walden" begins with Thoreau recounting his two years of solitude in a self-built house by Walden Pond, where he lived simply and engaged in manual labor. He addresses the curiosity of his townsfolk about his lifestyle choices and presents his views on the societal pressures that guide people into lives of "quiet desperation." Through vivid imagery and philosophical musings, Thoreau discusses the burdens of inherited possessions and societal expectations, asserting that many people live unexamined lives.